ISKANDAR PUTERI: Singapore remained Johor’s largest source market, contributing more than 4.7 million visitor arrivals in the first three months of this year, as the state’s Visit Johor 2026 campaign gained early momentum.
State Unity, Heritage and Culture Committee chairman K. Raven Kumar said Johor recorded 6.08 million visitor arrivals between January and March, surpassing the 5.96 million recorded in the same period last year.
“The strong contribution from Singapore continues to anchor Johor’s tourism performance, while arrivals from other key markets such as Indonesia, China and India have also shown encouraging growth,” he said at the Johor State Legislative Assembly here today.
Raven said the positive first-quarter performance reflects the effectiveness of the state’s promotional efforts and coordinated initiatives at key entry points.
He said the Visit Johor 2026 campaign is targeting 12 million tourist arrivals and RM42.48 billion in tourism receipts, supported by more than 100 to 170 events planned throughout the year.
“Based on current momentum, Johor is on track to achieve its targets, with early indicators pointing to sustained growth despite global economic uncertainties,” he said.
He added that the state’s tourism fundamentals remain strong, noting that Johor recorded 10.63 million visitors in 2025, including 7.38 million domestic and 3.25 million international tourists.
Raven said efforts to strengthen the tourism ecosystem are ongoing, with new attractions and upgrades aimed at enhancing visitor experience.
He said the Night Zoo Johor launch in March is a key addition to the state’s tourism offerings, while the upcoming Sultan Abu Bakar Complex and Johor Figures Museum, scheduled to open in June, is expected to boost heritage tourism.
Plans are also underway to introduce a Johor Tourist Bus service linking major attractions to improve accessibility and convenience for visitors.
In addition, existing recreational sites such as the Johor Baru City Council’s (MBJB) Hutan Bandar and Taman Tasek Merdeka are being enhanced, while ecotourism continues to expand through destinations including Kampung Sungai Melayu, Tanjung Piai National Park and the Gunung Ledang National Park.
Raven said the combination of new products, upgraded facilities and strategic promotion would ensure Johor remains competitive as a regional tourism hub.
“With sustained efforts and strong stakeholder support, Johor is well positioned to achieve its tourism targets and further strengthen its standing as a preferred destination,” he said.
